ARA PACIS - KEY INFO Flashcards
When was the Ara Pacis built?
Between 13 BC and 9 BC.
Why was the Ara Pacis built?
To commemorate the gallant military victory over Spain by the Roman Empire and their return to Rome.
What does the altar reflect?
Reflects the political reign of Augustus.
Why did the classical Roman society need peace?
Following a long period of war and turmoil.
What was the open-air altar for?
For blood sacrifice that was associated with the Roman state religion.
Explain the entrances to the altar.
The altar itself had four walls with two seperate entrances.
How was the main entrance designed?
It was designed so that anyone entering the altar to make a sacrifice would be turning their back on the Campus Martius, or the military training grounds where the altar was located.
What did the design of the main entrance represent?
It effectively represented them turning their backs on Mars, the god of war, and reaffirming the state of peace which the altar was built to recognise.
Where are the panels placed on the Ara Pacis?
The Roman and Tellus Panel are on the eastern wall. The Lupercal and Aeneas Panel are on the western wall.
